Karak Chai (Desi Strong Tea)

Ingredients

• 2 cups full-fat milk
• 1 cup water
• 2 heaped tsp Tapal Danedar loose-leaf tea (or 2 tea bags)
• 3–4 green cardamom pods, lightly crushed
• 1 small piece of cinnamon (optional)
• 2–3 tsp sugar (to taste)

Method

1. Combine water, cardamom, and cinnamon in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil.
2. Add the tea leaves and let them brew for 2 minutes on medium heat.
3. Pour in the milk and bring back to a rolling boil, stirring.
4. Reduce heat and simmer for 3–4 minutes, stirring continuously, until the tea turns deep caramel-brown and thickens slightly.
5. Add sugar, stir, then strain into cups through a fine-mesh sieve.

Tips

• The secret to karak (strong) chai is patience — the longer you simmer after adding milk, the richer and more flavourful it becomes.
• Tapal Danedar, cardamom, and cinnamon sticks are all available at Taqwa Foods.
• Pair with a warm samosa from the Fresh Counter for the ultimate experience.